Category: church

Once upon a time… A preacher greeted the congregation as they exited the sanctuary. It had been a blessing of a time, a gathering that included the faithful praying for God’s will, hearing God’s love proclaimed enthusiastically and the receiving of Holy Communion. People smiled, hugged and even offered a holy kiss or two as the time for their gathered worship concluded. One saint offered a blessing as he was leaving, just like most people…..

Y’all, I teared up. I can’t recall the last time I felt this affirmed about the ministry God has given me! Out of the blue, unnecessarily, I received 2 words of encouragement and affirmation yesterday. They were unrelated comments and given by two totally different people. I usually struggle with compliments. Many of you know that. But I received those words as true affirmation. I didn’t think too much about it afterwards. Then! I’ve cried in…..

Do me a favor. Watch this video from The Ellen Show. As you do, pretend Ellen is the preacher, the audience is the congregation, the set is a church, the show is Sunday morning worship and the guy is your first-time guest. Is there anything we can learn? And please realize, more and more, “church” is something that more and more people haven’t “done.” Stay blessed…john

Some people say, “It cannot be done.” Others say, “There’s no way it can be done.” Still, more say, “It’s just impossible.” The true leaders say, “We just haven’t figured out how to do it yet.” ++If you’re reading by email or news reader, click here to view the video.++ I can’t tell you how much this video encouraged me. How many times have people tried to convince us the church can’t do what it…..